SWEETWATER, Texas — Following the approval of a 10-year tax abatement by Nolan County commissioners, residents are now assessing what could become one of the most significant economic transformations in the county’s history. The decision clears the way for a $7 billion data center project, which is expected to inject millions into the local economy through more than $3 million in annual payments and upwards of $2 million in yearly charitable funding. The project, led by Crusoe Energy Systems, arrives amid a broader surge in large-scale data center facilities across Texas.
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The $7 billion data center is set to transform Nolan County (KTXS/Tavish Leffall).
The news has sparked a plethora of reactions from local residents and business owners, ranging from anticipation to apprehension. Sweetwater resident Christine Illig views the 200-megawatt data center as a pivotal step in the right direction.
“This is going to be great. I think that we’re probably going to bring in a lot of younger families,” she said. “I think there will be a lot of jobs. We really need those jobs. I know a lot of people are worried about the water and electricity, but I don’t think that will be a problem. I think they will recycle their water. It will be just fine. I think this is a good thing for Nolan County.”
The news of the incoming data center has sparked a plethora of reactions from community members (KTXS/Tavish Leffall).
Among those with reservations is Margie Jones, who expressed concern for the county’s future.
“I just hope this new project doesn’t change our community too much. If it does, then I might want to move out. The drastic change is what concerns me,” Jones said. “I fear that all of the wrong people will start to move here.”
Some local business owners view the project as an opportunity to reach new customers (KTXS/Tavish Leffall).
Nemesis Armstead, owner of Kinfolks Grill, views the data center as an opportunity for his Sweetwater restaurant to reach new customers.
“I think this will give us a chance to feed more people. If we seat an additional 20 customers per day, that would make a huge difference. More people coming in would mean a lot for us as a family business,” he said. “I’m excited. I think this will be great for business.”